From Conversation to Action: EY Launches NextGent to Support South Africa's Boys

Johannesburg, South Africa | Mandela Day 2026 - Forming part of the firm's EY Ripples corporate responsibility initiative, NextGent focuses on three pillars: role modelling, corporate exposure and life skills development.

The need is clear. Research shows that 81% of Grade 4 boys cannot read for meaning, 58% of learners who drop out before matric are boys, and 65% of children do not live with their biological fathers. These realities underscore the importance of creating support structures that help young boys build confidence, resilience and a stronger sense of possibility.

NextGent builds on the success of EY's flagship NextGen programme, which has been empowering female learners for the past 14 years. Through academic support, mentorship, leadership development and career exposure, NextGen has supported 408 beneficiaries across 21 schools and achieved a 100% matric pass rate for 14 consecutive years. Every matriculant has qualified for bachelor's degree studies, with 283 alumni progressing through university and into the workforce, some of whom now call EY home.

As NextGen expands into Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and Zimbabwe, NextGent represents the next chapter in EY's commitment to investing in Africa's future talent. The inaugural NextGent programme brought together 90 boys and six champion teachers, supported by almost 100 EY volunteers over two days. Volunteer interest exceeded available places, reflecting the enthusiasm of EY people to contribute to the programme's success.

"Mandela Day reminds us that meaningful impact begins when we move from intention to action," said Jabulile Kubheka, EY Africa Talent Leader. "Through NextGen, we have seen how access to mentorship, exposure and opportunity can change the trajectory of a young person's life. NextGent extends that commitment, helping young boys develop the confidence and skills to realise their potential and contribute meaningfully to society."

NextGent is more than a programme. It is a call for families, educators, businesses, communities and civil society to work together to create environments where young boys can thrive. EY believes that unlocking the potential of young people requires collective effort, shared responsibility and long-term commitment. Creating a future where every young person has the confidence, support and opportunity to thrive begins with a single step.

For EY, NextGent is ours.